• There are 3 basic life processes common to all organisms:

1. To obtain a source of energy

2. To avoid becoming a source of energy

3. To expend positive energy stores in reproduction

• The fundamental unit of life is the CELL.



• There are 15 primary cellular components (organelles) regulating all cell functions.

1. Cell Membrane - gives form to the cell and controls the passage of materials in and out of the cell (inc. diffusion, osmosis, filtration, active transport, pinocytosis and phagocytosis).

2. Cytoplasm - a matrix or ground substance for chemical reactions.

3. Endoplasmic Reticulum - supporting framework within the cytoplasm; transports materials: anchor site for ribosomes.

4. Ribosomes - synthesize proteins.

5. Golgi Apparatus - synthesizes carbohydrates; secretes lipids and glycoproteins.

6. Mitochondria - release energy from food molecules and transform it into usable ATP.

7. Lysosomes - digest foreign molecules and damaged cells.

8. Peroxisomes - contain enzymes; form hydrogen peroxide.

9. Vacuoles - store and secrete various substances within the cytoplasm.

10. Fibrils and Microtubules - support cytoplasm; transport materials.

11. Cilia and Flagella - more particles along the cell surface; move the cell.

12. Nuclear Membrane - controls the passage of material between the nucleus and cytoplasm.

13. Nucleolus - forms ribosomes.

14. Chromatin - fibrous stands of protein and DNA that control all cellular activities.

15. Centrosome - helps to organize spindle fibers and distribute chromosomes during mitosis.